Ardbeg has gone and made a third batch of its Traigh Bhan 19 Year Old single malt Scotch whisky, and again, it's a marvellous expression showing just how well the distillery's whisky does after a generous maturation. 19 years of rest has given it plenty of time for the flavour profile to deepen and develop, though it still keeps the familiar Ardbeg intensity at its heart. We're certainly singing its praises, which is apt, considering the name is a reference to the local Traigh Bhan beach on Islay, which is known as the Singing Sands.

In this whisky, faint waves of scented woodsmoke mingle with sea spray and pine resin. Wisps of aniseed toffee and sweet lilies follow on the breeze while fresh citrus zest laps over notes of cayenne pepper. With a splash of water, waxy notes and charcoal flow into droplets of classic Sherry and linseed oil.
On the palate there's a rush of rich, sappy textures is followed moments later by classic sweet smokiness. Tarry rope and treacle toffee plunge the palate into a second wave of soot and aniseed twists. Smoke bobs on the horizon, while smoked brown sugar, walnuts and spices gently dissolve away.
A long, unhurried finish carries bitter almonds and clove in its wake, before slowly drifting away.

700mL | 46.2%ABV